What types of charges might I face?

Petty Misdemeanor: You face a maximum $300 fine with no chance of jail or prison. This is not considered a crime. An example of this is a traffic ticket.

Misdemeanor: You face a maximum of 90 days in jail and up to a $1000 fine. This is considered a crime. Examples of misdemeanors include some theft charges, careless and reckless driving, some first time DWIs, some domestic assault charges, among other charges.

Gross Misdemeanor: You face a maximum of 1 year in jail and up to a $3000 fine. This is considered a crime. Examples of gross misdemeanors include some DWIs, some domestic assaults, obstruction with force, among other charges.

Felony: You face more than a year in jail and the fines vary but can be tens of thousands of dollars and more. This is considered the most serious crime. Examples of felonies include terrorist threats, rape, serious assaults with weapons, homicide, fourth time DWI, some domestic assaults, among other charges.

What are the possible court appearances I might face in my case?

Bail Argument: You may be held in custody pending a bail argument. This can be required for most serious felony cases but may likely happen in first time domestic assault charges as well as some first time DWIs and more. The issues the court usually considers are the seriousness of the charges, the potential danger to the public and likelihood to appear for court. These arguments can be complex and some conditional release requirements can be onerous.

Arraignment/First Appearance: You typically appear on these to enter a not guilty plea and acknowledge what you are charged with. In more serious cases, not guilty pleas are delayed until future court appearances.

Pretrial/Omnibus Hearing: This is typically the point where the prosecutor is willing to address possible settlement. I usually have been able to get all of the police reports, videos, documents, etc, to make an more clear assessment regarding the quality of the state’s case. Multiple appearances may be made at this point. Cases may settle at this point.

Contested Hearings: Under certain circumstances, it is necessary to contest the admissibility of certain evidence. A successful result could lead to the dismissal of a case or the exclusion of certain evidence which can dramatically impact the ability of the government to continue the prosecution.

Trial: There are many reasons that require a jury trial or a trial before a judge. There are an equal number of reasons that make a trial a very unwise move. As the case progresses, it is critically important to assess the quality of the government’s case, the possibility of a successful resolution short of trial, and the ramifications of settling vs. the possible ramifications of going to trial. In misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors in state court, we have the right to a six person jury whereas as with felony charges, we face a twelve person jury.

Pre Sentence Investigation (PSI): In the event of resolution short of trial and/or a guilty verdict, a PSI may be required depending upon the type of charge. This is designed to provide the sentencing judge with sufficient information to decide what she or he will do at sentencing. This can be a critical stage and requires great care.

Sentencing: At this point, there are many factors at play. Preparation is fundamentally important to convince the Judge to rule in our favor. As a result, this might be done through negotiation earlier in the case or through specific behavior by a defendant pending the sentencing. Either way, planning and care is key.

Collateral Consequences in Criminal cases: In addition to jail and fines, defendants could face a series of other consequences including loss of gun rights, voting rights and more. In addition, in certain cases including domestic assaults, defendants may also face no contact orders and other limitations. DWIs may face no-use provisions, license ramifications and even vehicle forfeitures. As a result, it is important to understand all of the ramifications of “taking a deal.”

How do I choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

This is a difficult question. However, my advice is to hire someone who specifically practices as a criminal defense lawyer rather than a general practitioner.

Also, hire somebody who has handled many cases similar to yours. If you want a trial, find somebody who is an expert in trying cases. I would also suggest finding a lawyer whom you trust. If you can’t have a good working relationship with your lawyer, you will have ongoing problems.

Finally, not all lawyers are the same. Experience, talent and capability don’t happen over night. If the consequences you face are severe, contemplate how much you lose if your case goes South. When you are ready, let’s talk.

How does my lawyer build a criminal defense case?

In order to properly build a three dimensional criminal defense case, your lawyer must:

Establish a personalized lawyer-client relationship with you and your family.

Appear with you at every stage of your case from bail argument to first appearance, pretrials, contested pretrials, trial proceedings and probation hearings.

Work with specialists including forensic scientists, psychologists, and counselors to support your defense claims and to determine other weaknesses in the government’s case.

Thoroughly examine all of the government’s evidence to determine what is true, half-true and absolutely false. This is a critical step in order to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the government’s case.

Establish any new evidence in your favor including witness testimony that may be presented at trial.

What happens if I haven't been charged?

Sometimes, before you have been charged is the best time to have counsel beside you. Before the state has locked in charges or they are still investigating, your lawyer can help protect you the police interrogation and investigation.

I can’t count the number of times that I have had clients charged based exclusively upon their statements to the police. Know your rights, making no statements without representation. If you find yourself in this situation, contact me immediately using the information below.

How do I get the help I need?

If you would like to reach me immediately, call 612-227-1339 or fill out my simple contact form. The consultation is free.

If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime, it is critical that you consult with a Minnesota criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Even if the changes seem inconsequential, the ramifications may be much worse than you even know.